How to Create a Perfect Circle Without Tracing

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Need to draw a perfect circle, but don't have anything to trace? You can create a circle with a compass or even just with a pencil and eraser.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Compass

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    You can buy one at office supply or drafting supply stores.
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    For a bigger circle, spread the compass wider.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Pencil Tip

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    Place the paper on a flat, clean surface. The easier the surface is to move the paper on, the better, such as a well-polished table. Also, be sure to have plenty of space to be able to move the paper on the work surface.
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    Press down on the point where the exposed wood on the pencil meets the painted part.
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    While your index finger is holding the edge of the pencil described in Step 3, rotate the paper beneath the pencil with your free hand.
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    You have now completed your circle.
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Square

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    Start from one end of a bisecting line and take the half circle shape up to the next bisecting line, with the rounded edge sitting against the edge of the large outer square.
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    Leave behind the circle.
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Community Q&A

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  • Question
    How can I draw a small circle?
    CyanCoding
    Community Answer
    You can create a small circle with a compass by shortening the length between the point and the pencil. If you would like to draw the circle alone on paper, move the paper less when turning it. Similarly, with the square, you can make a smaller square to make a smaller circle.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
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    Yes No
    Not Helpful 7 Helpful 17
  • Question
    What if the paper moves the wrong way when I'm rotating it?
    Community Answer
    Don't worry, mistakes help you improve! Just start over or erase your mistake.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 26 Helpful 38
  • Question
    I tried it and my pencil wouldn't move, why didn't it work?
    Community Answer
    You may be pushing down too hard. Make sure your pencil is fairly sharp too.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
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      Things You'll Need

      • Paper
      • Pencil
      • Clean and flat work surface
      • Drafting compass (optional)

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